Kent and Medway Medical School (KMMS) students and staff took a break from their work to plant medicinal trees outside the University of Kent Sports Centre.
First-year students, in the middle of very busy pre-exam period, were taught about the trees before being given a lesson in how to plant them. Abdulla Kassim, one of the students offering his time, said: “This is the first time I’ve planted a tree! It was an interesting experience, but also it was great to take some time out from my studies for my wellbeing and to learn about something new.”
This planting is part of the University’s eight-part plan to create a ‘river of vegetation’ across the Canterbury campus, between the Kent Community Oasis Garden and the Diamond Anniversary Orchard. The river will be made up of a variety of different plants, all selected for specific characteristics linked to the areas in which they are planted, to boost foraging opportunities for pollinators, and to provide education chances on biodiversity and the climate crisis.
The inclusion of Paper Birch, Witch-Hazel and Gingko species, donated by the Kent Men of the Trees (KMOTT), were specifically selected as part of phase three to occupy the urban area near the KMMS Pears building, due to their medicinal properties.
Emily Mason, Sustainability Coordinator for the University said: “It’s so lovely to have students and staff from KMMS taking part. We want the river to feel like it belongs to everyone, so to have the medicinal trees planted by members of the KMMS community feels appropriate.”
In addition to students, staff also took part in the project, including KMMS Founding Dean, Professor Chris Holland. He added: “I’m really pleased to do this together with colleagues and some students. Section three of the walk reflects the medical school, health and the biosciences. We’re very grateful for the opportunity and to the KMOTT.”
The trees can be found between the Pears Building and the Sports Centre. If you would like to learn more about the project, further information can be found on the University of Kent website.